Ever since I arrived in Budapest, I have been amazed by the beauty of the sky and the variety of colors and lights it can show at any given time of the day. I am lucky enough to have a flat whose windows are oriented towards the West, that way I am a privileged spectator to several mindblowing sunsets over the city. The summer has been quite generous, as you can see! I honestly can’t get enough of sunsets or sky pictures in general, and there are few things I find more beautiful than the sun rays radiating from behind a cloud.

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Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair, with some six million people attending every year. The festival traces its roots back to 1810 when the citizens of Bavaria came together to honor the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

On October 12, 1810, the townspeople of Munich came together to honor the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

The following day, celebrations continued with various activities, including concerts, parties, balls, and even a horse race. It was so spectacular and intense that the royals of Bavaria decided to hold another event a year later. Eventually, it was agreed that Oktoberfest would become an annual event which was prolonged and moved forward into September for better weather conditions.

Oktoberfest is now the world’s largest fair with over six million people attending every year. It consists of 30 different tents across the grounds of Theresienwiese Park, each specializing in different beers, food and music.

This year Oktoberfest will mark 200 years since it first began as a royal wedding celebration. Officially Oktoberfest has only taken place 176 times due to cancellations from wars and conflicts. However, organizers still consider this to be an important year and have arranged for some special activities including extending the festival by a day at opening and closing.

Events include a historic reconstruction of the original festival using an antique Oktoberfest tent and exhibition of historical fun fair attractions. Traditional horse races will be held daily twice a day. The last time a horse race occurred was in 1938, after which it was cancelled for political reasons.

The city of Munich will also host a special tribute of its own. The Oktoberfest-Exhibition at the City Museum of Munich will showcase the history of Oktoberfest from its origins as Bavarian celebration with royal overtones to the world’s largest beer and folk festival from July 9 through the end of October. Approximately 800 artifacts are on display including those that were directly involved in the original festivities at one time or another.

Visitors can also purchase an official 200 year jubilee stein handmade by the company Rastal. It features image of  Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen along with the “Muenchner Kindl” (the coat of arms of Munich). The stein can be purchased from the official Oktoberfest website.

This year’s festivities will run from Friday, September 17th through Monday, October 4th. The official tapping of the first beer barrel will be celebrated on Saturday 18th at noon. Admission to the event is free.

So get ready for two weeks of thigh-slapping-om-pah-pah-merriment!

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Miljacka river and Latin bridge in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina.

If you’re looking to broaden the scope of your trips to include some less-talked-about places, with outstanding things to see and do. Here is our list of top ten underrated cities in Central & Eastern Europe.

Ceský Krumlov, Czech Republic 

Ceský Krumlov is located in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. The city is famous for its Old Town, with 300 protected medieval buildings, and its castle complex, the second largest in the country. The cosy inns, coffee shops, and ancient taverns entertain a diverse international crowd. Being a world-renowned country for beer, Ceský Krumlov is also home to the Pivovar Eggenberg brewery.  

Pécs, Hungary   

Under the old communist regime, most of the government’s focus and money went to Budapest. As a result, foreign visitors rarely ventured beyond this city on the Danube River. However, there is a lot more to see within this charming country. Located on the slopes of the Mecsek mountains in the south-west of the country, close to the borders of Croatia, is Pécs. This ancient city has a multicultural heritage that includes rich Hungarian traditions and a history dating to the Romans, who called it Sopianae. Historical buildings, famous works of art, Turkish mosques, cafes, and wine cellars are just a few of the best highlights.   

Kiev, Ukraine   

There is much more to Ukraine than news stories of political tyranny and military submarines. The country gained its independence from Moscow, in 1991. Today its bustling capital Kiev has over 3 million residents and is considered an important centre of Eastern Europe. With a skyline defined by the golden domes of numerous churches and monasteries, the streets of Kiev, one of Europe’s oldest cities, exude a sense of permanence. It has stood here for centuries, its fortunes rising and falling, and now exists as a striking modern city which preserves its past, to the delight of visitors.   

Torun, Poland   

Contrary to Warsaw, Gdansk and some other Polish cities, Torun suffered no damage during World War II, and has retained its authentic character. It has many monuments of architecture beginning from the Middle Ages, including 200 military structures. The city is famous for having preserved almost intact its medieval spatial layout and many Gothic buildings, all built from brick, including monumental churches, the Town Hall and many burgher houses. Its lively centre is full of diverse cafes and pubs, offering a refreshing stop to its visitors. Torun specialises in traditional gingerbread, which makes it a great place to visit during the Christmas season.   

St. Andrew's church in Kiev, Ukraine.

Ljubljana, Slovenia   

The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a vibrant and diverse city. It consists of colorful squares, stunning architecture, quaint cafes and shops, and stone bridges. Ljubljana also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, hosting countless musical, theatrical, and avant-garde events throughout the year. In the summer months, the Ljubljana Festival brings more than 50 cultural events and performances to the city. Furthermore, just outside Ljubljana there is skiing, water rafting, mountain biking and many outdoor pursuits.  

Zagreb, Croatia   

People often pass up this city in favor of Croatia’s sunny coastlines but Zagreb is worth visiting as well. It is home to more than 30 museums comprising of 3.6 million artifacts and exhibits. The historical part of the city to the north of Ban Jelacic Square is composed of the Gornji Grad and Kaptol, a medieval urban complex of churches, palaces, museums, galleries and government buildings. The city is also blossoming with modern shops, restaurants, bars, and other new businesses.   

Riga, Latvia   

Situated along the river Daugava, on the coast of Baltic Sea, Riga enjoys the status of being the largest city amongst the Baltic States. During the day, visitors can spend time walking through its windy cobbled streets in “old town” while admiring the grandoise architecture. Nightmarish gargoyles and praying goddesses adorn over 750 buildings along its stately boulevards. There’s also world-class performances of opera and theatre, many of which are very affordable. By night the city pulsates with life, offering a plethora of clubs, restaurants and bars.  

Sofia, Bulgaria  

Sofia is relatively unknown and unexplored by most travelers. It is a city with a rich past that features a combination of European and Communist-style architecture as well as many beautiful orthodox churches. Sofia has a many great attractions, excellent shopping and day excursions. Furthermore, it claims to be one of the few European capitals with a developed ski-resort so close to it – the Vitosha mountain.  

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is a picturesque city on the coast of the Gulf of Finland. Once a medieval Hanseatic town and for long periods in history dominated by the Germans, Swedes and Russians, Tallinn today contain lots of influence from those days but still manages to retain an Estonian soul and identity. There are numerous historical buildings to explore as well as beautiful parks and sights. Twisting cobblestone lanes and ancient stone walls, Gothic spires and medieval markets make up Tallinn’s old town. For those travelers who are looking for an unexplored but civilizing and stylish destination, Tallinn is a perfect choice.

Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina  

Sarajevo is situated in the Miljacka River valley and is surrounded by the mountains which were host to the 1984 Winter Olympics.  The recent war in Bosnia devastated the city and its inhabitants, and although the scars are visible in the shell-shocked pavement and demolished buildings, the progress is substantial. There is much to to appreciate in this moving city from museums, theatres, parks, cafes, as well as cultural events throughout the year. Sarajevo is one of the few places in the world that has a mosque, synagogue, and a Orthodox and Roman Catholic church within walking distance of each other. A reminder that Sarajevo can have religious diversity and that people can coexist in peace. This is one city that will prove to be a very worthy destination in the near future.

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Germany has several large and well-known beer festivals. The most popular is the Munich Oktoberfest which is the world’s largest fair attracting over six million people each year.

A visit to Germany is incomplete without going to an authentic German Beer Festival.

Here are the top 10 beer festivals that will have you saying “Prost!”

10) Hanover Schützenfest

The world’s biggest marksman’s festival is celebrated every year in Hannover. It combines a fair with shooting matches among members of the local marksmen’s association, various rides and inns, and lively entertainment. The highlight of Hanover Schützenfest is the 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) long Parade of the Marksmen which is is the longest parade in Europe if not the world. Of course, there’s also lot’s of beer!

9) Munich’s Frühlingfest

For anyone who wants to get as close as possible to Oktoberfest while traveling Germany without really being there will find that Munich’s Frühlingfest (Spring Festival) is the ideal choice. This beer festival is a miniature version of Oktoberfest even held on the same fair grounds, called the Theresienwiese in Munich. Beer tents, carnival rides, and oompah-music bands playing traditional German songs set the scene for this lively festival.

8 ) Munich’s Starkbierzeit

Munich’s Starkbierzeit also reffered to as “strong beer time” is exactly as the title suggests. Every year in early spring local breweries produce their strongest beers. The festival’s roots go back to the Paulaner monks who, according to legend, began making an extra-strength beer to sustain themselves during their Lenten fast. The festival is an excellent showcase of Bavaria’s distinctive culture and traditions.

7) Kulmbacher Bierfest

Unlike other festivals, the Kulmbacher Bierfest is exclusively dedicated to beer. The town is the proud home of four breweries that each put up a huge pavilion in the town center to sell their special beers. A variety of typical Franconian food is also available.

6) Barthelmarkt

The Barthelmarkt occurs in Manching near Ingolstadt on the last weekend of August. Though first mentioned in 1354, its roots can be traced back as early as to the first century BC, when the Romans established a cattle market in the area. The name “Barthelmarkt” stems from St. Bartholomew, the patron saint of the local church.

5) Gäubodenvolksfest

Founded in 1812 as an agricultural gathering of the people in the Danube region, the Gäubodenvolksfest is a modern and family friendly festival. Beers from the Straubing-Bogen region are served, and on the first day there is a “bierprobe” meaning “tasting of the beer”, with a parade of 2,000 participants in traditional Bavarian costumes and on horse carriages and wagons.  

4) International Berlin Beer Festival

Usually held on the first weekend of August annually, the festival takes place on the Karl-Marx-Allee in Berlin Friedrichshain. The city’s “beer mile” stretches 2.2 km from Frankfurter Tor to Strausberger Platz which organisers claim makes it the world’s longest beer garden. One million visitors attend the International Berlin Beer Festival each year. For anyone seeking to sample a variety of beers will appreciate it’s selection of 2,000 varieties representing 85 countries with a focus on smaller, private breweries.

3) Bremen Freimarkt

First held in 1035, Bremen Freimarkt is the oldest fair in Germany. With more than four million visitors each year, it is also considered to be the biggest festival in Northern Germany. The festival offers a number of beer tents, amusement rides, and entertainment. An annual highlight is the “Freimarktsumzug” (Free Fair Procession) held on the second Saturday of the festival.

2) Cannstatter Volksfest

In terms of size, the Cannstatter Volksfest also known as Stuttgart Beer Festival is second-only to the Oktoberfest in Munich. It began in 1818 as a harvest festival following a famine and has since been taking place at the end of September every year. The fun-filled festival features beer tents, fairground rides, fireworks, a market and much more.

1) Munich’s Oktoberfest

Nothing compares to Munich’s Oktoberfest at least in size and attendance. It is the world’s largest fair with over six million visitors a year. So, if your looking for an excuse to celebrate with beer…this is the place to be!

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St Stephen’s Basilica is the largest ecclesiastical building in Budapest, named in honour of Stephen, the first King of Hungary (c 975–1038).

Its sheer size and complexity resulted in St Stephen’s Basilica taking over 50 years to build. Construction was started in 1851 under the supervision of József Hild; however, the building was not completed until 1905 along with the assistance of three different architects. Much of this delay can be attributed to the collapse of the dome in 1868 which required complete demolition of the completed works and rebuilding from the ground up. Cleaning and restoration work have also been carried out over the years.

Built in neoclassical style, it comprises of a two distinctive bell towers with a vast dome in the centre. Ionic columns and statues of twelve apostles adore the outside walls which can be seen from a distance.

The interior features elaborately decorated chapels, intricate carvings and sculptures, bronze mouldings as well as many famous Hungarian works of art. Of particular note is a painting by notable artist Gyula Benczúr, it shows St Stephen offering the Hungarian crown to Mary.

The interior consists of marble and gilded-stucco. Famous Hungarian works of art can be seen throughout the building.

There is also the mummified hand of Stephen, Hungary’s holiest relic housed in a small chapel to the left of the main altar. On August 20, the relic is paraded around the church and through the streets of Budapest to commemorate his legacy to Hungary.

Vistiors can take an elevator or climb the stairs up to the cupola, from where a scenic view of the city can be enjoyed. In the southern tower is Hungary’s biggest bell, weighing over 9 tonnes.

Music lovers can also enjoy the excellent acoustics of St. Stephens Basilica by attending one of the organ concerts, which are held throughout the year. The paved piazza, full of restaurants amd cafes just outside the basilica also makes an excellent stopping-off point.

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The Herend Porcelain Factory contains one of the largest collections of hand-crafted luxury porcelain in the world. Famous buyers have included Tsar Alexander II, Kaiser Wilhelm I, Shah of Iran and the British royal family.

Situated near Lake Balaton, close to the Bakony hills is Herend, the largest and most prestigious porcelain manufacture in Europe.

Founded in 1826 by Vince Stingl, the company originally bgean producing earthenware pottery. At the time, low-cost pottery was readily available across the country, so competition was fierce. In 1839 a major turning point occurred when Mor Fischer became the company’s new owner. Taking Herend in an entirely new direction she turned to designing dinnerware patterns. Soon afterwards, Herend quickly gained international recognition for it’s work. In the 1850s Herend added meticulously-crafted figurines to its creations, with folk figurines commanding center stage in the early years. The Herend Porcelain Factory became a purveyor to the Habsburg Dynasty as well as aristocratic customers throughout Europe. This was known as the golden age of Herend.

A Herend employee at work. Items are made from hard-paste porcelain using a mixture of kaolin, feldspar and quartz.

After War II, the company was nationalized and owned by the communist State. Shortly after the fall of the wall when Hungary regained its political and economic freedom of open market economy, in 1993 the company was silently purchased by private ownership. The majority of the company’s stock is now in the possession of its management and employees.

The factory remains one of the largest producers of hand-crafted luxury porcelain in the world. Many of Herend’s classic patterns are still in production. The company employs over 1600 people, all of whom must attend a three-year training program before beginning their work at the factory.

Herend features their own porcelain museum which showcases the history of its crafts and displays some of it’s most precious pieces. There is also the Porcelanium where visitors can tour the factory and observe porcelain-making demonstrations.

Adjacent to the factory is the Apicius Restaurant and Café, named after the celebrated Roman gourmet Apicius. Dishes are served, naturally enough, using the finest of Herend’s porcelain.

For those seeking to discover the rich history of Hungary’s most renowned craft, the Herend Porcelain Factory is certainly worth a visit.

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Apple strudel with hot vanilla sauce.

Vienna is one of the few cities in the world that boasts its very own cuisine. Much of this can be attributed to the city being an epicenter of power for centuries. It has taken on influences of Italy, France, and various regions of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire as multitudes of immigrants made their way into Vienna.

There is much to discover with Viennese cuisine including some of the world’s best pastries and cakes such as the legendary Sachertorte as well as savory dishes like the delicate Tafelspitz. The following is a list of some of the most popular Viennese dishes.

Gulasch

Inspired by the famous Hungarian goulash, this hearty and flavorful soup is also well-known in Vienna. Variations of goulash include fish, veal, chicken, and wild game. There are even restaurants in Vienna that only serve goulash on their menus and are known as “goulash huts.”

Kaiserschmarrn

Kaiserschmarrn is a light, caramelized pancake that is combined with raisins and fruit preserves and then topped with powdered sugar. It is believed the dish was first prepared for the Austrian Emperor Francis Joseph I from 1830 to 1916.

Sachertorte

Made with layers of dense chocolate and apricot jam in the centre along with icing on the top and sides, sachertorte is Vienna’s most famous cake and is world renowned. It is traditionally served with unsweetened whipped cream to compliment its overall taste. Sachertorte was named after its inventor Franz Sacher who created the dessert in 1832 for Wenzel Clemens Prince Metternich. The trademark for the “Original Sacher-torte” is registered by the Hotel Sacher, which was built in 1876 by the son of Franz Sacher.

Schinkenfleckerln

A classical Viennese dish that conists of thick egg noodles covered with ham and cheese. Similar to a casserole.

Strudel

The Viennese are very passionate about their strudels and the art of strudel making. It is believed that strudel was first introduced in Vienna by the Turks in the mid 15th century, in the form of the Baklava pastry. It soon became synonymous with Viennese cuisine over the years. The most well known version is the apple strudel but there are also savory kinds like cabbage strudel.

Tafelspitz

Tafelspitz is at its most basic, boiled beef. However, authentic Tafelspitz in Vienna and throughout Austria requires a custom-cut fresh piece of the hind part of the cow unlike North American versions. The dish is also cooked according to classic preparation rules.

Vanillekipferl 

Crescent shaped cookies made from ground almonds or hazelnuts that are dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Vanillekipferl are most often baked for Christmas.

Wiener Schnitzel

A specialty originating from the Italian “costoletta milanese”, Viennese wiener schnitzel consists of a thin slice of fried veal that is coated in breadcrumbs. It is not be confused with the North American version made from pork. The dish is most often served with Erdäpfel Salat, a warm potato salad.

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The iconic Wiener Riesenrad, the Giant Ferris Wheel has been featured in many hollywood movies including "The Third Man."

In 1766, Austrian Emperor Josef II decided to open his imperial hunting grounds to the public.

Today, the Vienna Prater is one of the oldest park’s in the world. It features over 250 different attractions along with an expansive area of parks, forest land and meadow fields.

The iconic Wiener Riesenrad, the Giant Ferris Wheel is the park’s most popular attraction and can be seen from a great distance. Spanning over 200 feet with a total weight of 430.05 tons, the Giant Ferris Wheel was built in 1897 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Emperor Franz Josef I. During World War II, bombs and the construction of trenches destroyed large parts of the Prater district including the Giant Ferris Wheel. In 1945, most of the park was rebuilt at the same time as the reconstruction of St. Stephan’s Cathedral, the State Opera House, and the Burgtheater throughout the city. 

Visitors can now take a ride up the Wiener Riesenrad in one of it’s 15 carefully restored cabins and enjoy a speculator views alongside the Danube. For special occasions, cabins can be rented out for a romantic dinner or drinks.

Prater Amusement Park is known for its nostalgic rides dating back to the 1900's.

Among other attractions in the park are roller coasters, fun houses, carousels, game arcades, as well as flying and whirling contraptions. There are also many cafes, restaurants, and beer gardens which offer traditional Viennese culinary delights from small snacks to full-scale dinners. The park is especially worth seeing at night when it’s gorgeous scenery is brilliantly lit in all colors.

Towards the back of the park is known as the “Green Prater”, which features recreational trails and paths. It is used extensively for sports such as walking, cycling, running and rollerblading. Pony rides and horse drawn carriages are permitted in the area. Bike rental is available and is a great way to see the park.

There is no entrance fee to get into the park as each attraction charges its own fee.

For those seeking a nostalgic and fun filled experience in Vienna, Prater Park is a must see!

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Széchenyi Chain Bridge with Buda Castle in the background.

Proclaimed as one of Europe’s most beautiful and majestic cities, Budapest has become a major travel destination that attracts over 20 million visitors a year. It boasts a wide range of things to see and do including museums and churches, coffee houses, Turkish baths and Roman ruins, historical sites, nature parks, as well as shopping and entertainment.

Here are just a few of the city’s best highlights.

The Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. It is currently the largest building in Hungary and the second largest Parliament in Europe. The neo-Gothic structure was built in 1885 to 1902 by the designs of architect Imre Steindl for the millennium celebrations of 1896. The vast interior comprises of huge halls, over 12 miles of corridors, a 96-meter high central dome, and 691 rooms including more than 200 offices. Besides the impressive architecture, visitors can see the Holy Crown of Hungary also known as Magyar Szent Korona in the centre hall. The relic medieval crown is one of the most important symbols of Hungarian statehood dating back over 1000 years. The Parliament building is open all year round and can be visited on guided tours booked in advance. Tours are available in English, German, French, Russian, Hebrew, Italian, and Spanish.

St Stephen’s Basilica

St Stephen’s Basilica is the largest ecclesiastical building in Budapest, with a width of 55 metres (180 ft) and length of 87.4 metres (287 ft). It was named in honour of Stephen, the first King of Hungary (c 975–1038), whose mummified arm, the Holy Right, is housed in the reliquary. The vast interior features intricate carvings, frescoes and chapels, gilded stuccos and bronze mouldings as well as famous Hungarian works of art. Visitors can take an elevator or climb the stairs up to the tower, from where a spectacular panorama of the city can be enjoyed.

View from St. Stephen's Basilica in the bell tower.

Thermal Baths

There is no better way to relax than in one of Budapest’s magnificent thermal baths. One of the most splendid is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Pest that consists of a vast complex of indoor and outdoor pools. The Neo-Baroque building was established in 1913 to the design of Gyozo Czigler. Just as glorious is the Gellért Thermal Bath and Hotel located on the base of Gellért Hill on the bank of the Danube. The spa is decorated with original Art Nouveau furnishings with opulent tiles, statues and marble pillars. As well, both spas are renowned for their healing properties.

Matthias Church and The Fishermen’s Bastion

Located within the Buda Castle district, is the neo-Gothic Matthias Church. It was originally built in Romanesque style in 1015, and has since undergone several renovations and additions, most notably in the second half of the 14th century and in the late 19th century. The interior of the church contains a number of sacred relics and medieval stone carvings, along with replicas of the Hungarian royal crown and coronation jewels including the Loreto Chapel, the Royal Oratory, and the tomb of Bela III. The church also regularly hosts concerts throughout the year. Opposite is Fishermen’s Bastion which was built by Schulek in 1902, is the stretch of Buda’s defensive wall originally used as market place by the guild of fisherman for selling fish. Tourists still flock there for the unforgettable views of the city and the River Danube.

Central Market

The Central Market Hall is the largest indoor market in the capital and the most attractive. Built in 1890 and restored in 1994, it is a popular shopping site for both locals and tourists. You’ll find fresh meat and sausages, vegetables and spices, as well as the famous Hungarian paprika which you can bring home to sample.

Coffeehouses & Cake Shops

Coffeehouses and cake shops are an institution in Budapest that has existed since the beginning of the 16th century when coffee was introduced into the region by the Turks. One of the most famous is Café Gerbeaud, which was founded by Henrik Kugler in 1858 and expanded by its later owner, Emil Gerbeaud. The stunning crystal chandeliers, stucco décor, and noble-wood furnishings, all emphasize the splendid glamour of this place. Gerbeaud’s specialties include famous cakes, such as Esterházy and Dobos cakes, as well as all kind of cream cakes, extravagant bakery goods and exquisite ice-creams. Just as worthy is Ruszwurm, located in the castle district of Budapest. This charming café was built in 1827 by Ferenc Schwabl. Its original furnishings are still intact today including antique cabinets and Oakwood tables and chairs. At one time Ruszwurm supplied the aristocracy in the castle and the surrounding area. The Austrian Empress Elisabeth (1837-1898) is supposed to have been a customer.

State Opera House

One of the finest historical monuments in the capital, the Opera House, stands on Andrássy Avenue. Designed by Miklós Ybl, a major figure of 19th century Hungarian architecture, the construction lasted from 1875 to 1884 and was funded by the city of Budapest and by Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria-Hungary. Its stately design is nothing short of enchanting with fairy tale staircases, regal boxes, an imperial stage and rich staterooms. Performances of opera, ballet, and classical and contemporary music are held nearly every day of the week.

Men playing chess at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.

Buda Castle

Buda Castle is the historical castle complex of the Hungarian kings in Budapest, Hungary, that was first completed in 1265. Built after the Mongol invasion, it was destroyed and rebuilt many times over the years, and has been renewed from time to time symbolizingthe country itself. The exterior comprises of intricate statutes including the grandiose Matthias Fountain, Monument of Prince Eugene of Savoy, the Horse Wrangler, and the Turulbird. The interior houses the Hungary’s National Library, the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery’s exquisite collection of paintings. The nearby, beautifully renovated Sándor Palace is the residence and workplace of the Head of the State. Buda Castle was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987.

Hero’s Square

Hero’s Square was built for the 1896 millennium celebrations. It is dominated by the Archangel Gabriel who is surrounded by seven statues representing the chiefs of the seven Magyar tribes who settled in this area. The large open space is dedicated to the Hungarian war memorial and attracts tourists, skateboarders and inline skaters by the dozens.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Perhaps, the most iconic symbols of Budapest, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge spans over the River Danube between Buda and Pest. It is especially impressive at night when it is lid up and can be seen at a great distance. The bridge was opened on 21 November 1849, and at 380m it was one of the largest suspension bridges at the time. It was named after István Széchenyi, a major supporter of its construction.

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A panoramic view of Tihany Abbey with the inner lake and Lake Balaton in Hungary. Photo courtesy of istockphoto.com.

If you’re looking to discover Hungary beyond its capital city, here are six great places that are definitely worth a visit!

Eger

At the foot of the Bukk Mountains lies the town of Eger, one of the most beautiful and most frequently visited areas in Hungary. Attractions include the great castle of Eger and its historical complex, the Archbishop’s Cathedral, baroque and rococo palaces, thermal baths and more. Eger is also well-known for its wine growing region. It produces the famous Egri Bikavér also known as “Bull’s Blood”, an elegant red blend mainly based on Kékfrankos. According to legend, the drink was established after the Turks try to invade the town of Eger. It was rumoured that soldiers drank bull’s blood mixed with wine to frighten off their enemy.

Lake Balaton

Lake Ballaton is where the Hungarians’ vacation. Nicknamed the Hungarian sea by locals, Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Europe stretching over 70 km long. Visitors come every summer to enjoy it’s remarkably clean, milky green waters, from which, with an average depth of only 3m, are warm enough to swim in from May to October. The area is also known for its vineyards, resorts, and thermal baths.

The Danube Bend

One of the most picturesque areas in Hungary is the Danube River. Visitors can take a cruise along the blend to explore its incredible landscape. Clusters of charming towns on the Bend such as Esztergom, Visegrád, and Szentendre have an amazing collection of history, culture and architecture. Travellers with more time in Budapest can easily make a day trip to the Bend.

Hollókö

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Hollókö and its surrounding area is a ethnographic village comprising of beautiful and vibrant historical houses and dwellings mainly from the 17th and 18th century. Its name means “Raven-stone” in Hungarian. The village is currently home to 400 residents who are a Palóc ethnic minority group in Hungary. Beside their special dialect, the residents retain their traditions and colourful decorated folk costumes. Hollókö also has a variety of festivals throughout the year. Perhaps the most spectacular festival is Easter at Hollókõ, when residents celebrate the arrival of spring.

The Hortobágy National Park

The Hortobágy is Hungary’s largest protected area and the largest natural grassland in Europe. It is a living heritage museum, with roaming animals and cowboys demonstrating their traditional customs and equestrian skills. The area also provides habitat for various species including a large numbers of birds.

The Aggtelek National Park

Located in Northern Hungary bordering Slovakia, the Aggtelek National Park comprises an area of 20,000 hectares. Trove of caves, combining echoing passageways with intricate limestone structures are found beneath the grounds. Excavations in and around the cave have proved that it has been a shelter to man for more than 7 000 years. Above ground, the quiet, forested landscape is a haven for birds, butterflies, amphibians and reptiles, as well as the occasional brown bear or lynx. Guided tours are available in the area.

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